A political controversy erupted in Kochi on Saturday after Mayor V K Minimol made statements at a Church event suggesting that the Latin Catholic community played a role in securing her mayoral position. Her remarks have drawn sharp reactions and denials from her own party, the Indian National Congress.
Mayor's Statement at Church Assembly
Speaking at the 46th general assembly of the Kerala Region Latin Catholic Council (KRLCC) at Ashirbhavan in Ernakulam, Mayor Minimol indicated community intervention. "My position as Kochi mayor is evidence of the strong voice of Latin community being raised in society," she stated. She elaborated that it showed the community's strength in raising its voice during decisions on official positions.
The Mayor expressed gratitude, saying, "I know that all bishops spoke in my favour. I am registering my thanks to all on this occasion." The KRLCC is the apex body representing Latin Catholics in the state of Kerala.
Congress Denial and Mayor's Clarification
The Mayor's comments directly contradicted the official stance of the Indian National Congress (INC). District Congress Committee (DCC) president Mohammed Shiyas categorically denied any church intervention in the decision-making process, asserting the appointment followed KPCC guidelines.
Following the backlash, Minimol later clarified her remarks. She explained that she was attending a Church event where she was being honoured and thanked attendees out of courtesy. She stated that she has similarly thanked supporters at other events and that her statement at the KRLCC assembly was a general one.
The Mayor defended her merit, pointing out that she has won from her division four consecutive times, each time with an increased victory margin. She added that she thanks all community leaders and prominent citizens as time permits, and this was a similar gesture.
Archbishop's Support and Broader Implications
Archbishop Dr Varghese Chakkalakal came to the Mayor's support. While clarifying that one could not say the Church 'raised its voice', he noted that since Minimol is a church member, there could have been recommendations stemming from good intentions. "I don't think that it can be termed as wrong," the Bishop said.
In her inaugural address at the assembly, the Mayor also predicted a future where the strength of the Latin community would be fully revealed. She emphasized that the comprehensive growth of Kochi city requires the support of all its sections.
The incident highlights the sensitive intersection of community identity, political appointments, and party protocol in Kerala's political landscape, sparking a debate on the influence of religious bodies in civic positions.
